Although acquired separately by Lord Hertford, this painting and Delaroche, 'Mother and Children' (P355) are almost certainly pendants. The two pictures contrast mood, social status and race as well as leisure and activity, but they are united by the themes of motherhood and nurturing. Whereas 'Mother and Children' draws on religious imagery which dates back to at least the Renaissance, 'A Child learning to Read' is a innovative and disturbing work, much less rooted in tradition. Parenthood was a matter of great concern to Delaroche, one of two sons who himself was the father of two sons.